Violence Against Women

I haven't ordered anything from Avon in years. No particular reason, just haven't checked out a catalog in a long time. Recently while I have having my hair done I was flipping through an Avon catalog at the salon and noticed that in addition to the company's support of breast cancer research, they also have another charity as part of the Avon Foundation. The actress Reese Witherspoon is their Global Ambassador for these campaigns. I am going to use her words here to describe the jewelry item and what Avon is doing with the profits from its sale:

"I am proud to introduce the Avon Empowerment Necklace. Thanks to you, 2008 sales of the empowerment Bracelet raised over $1 million for the UN Trust Fund to End Violence Against Women and generated more than $2.5 million in additional funds for local programs in the US and globally to help victims and their families. Purchase the necklace now and let's help stop the violence - - together."

For more information you can visit avonfoundation.org.

The necklace costs $5 and 100% of the profits from its sales go to the fund. I don't work for Avon and I am not related to anyone who does. I just wanted to point out something good when I saw it. I respect the fact that a large company is taking violence against women seriously, and bringing much needed attention and funding to helping to stop it.

I know times are tough and we all have to think about how we are spending our money, even a spare $5. I love the idea that I can buy this necklace and not only will my purchase price go toward something I support, but I can use the necklace itself as a tool to bring attention and advocacy to an important cause.

A New Website Devoted To Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention

A new blog called Violence UnSilenced was started by a brave survivor named Maggie. Her first post tells her story, which she can do much better than I. All of us are affected by Domestic Violence, even if we don't realize it. We may not be the one who is the victim, but we know someone who is - a family member, a friend, a co-worker or a neighbor. Please check out Maggie's site, and if you have your own story to share, consider submitting it to help others. If you have a blog, please take the time to read about the pledge and make sure you grab the badge for your own site. Let's help this brave lady make a difference that helps us all!